Iranian of the Day

Leading trade unionist Mahmoud Salehi chained to his (hospital or prison?) bed.

According to the latest report (January 9, 2008) by the Committee in Defense of Mahmoud Salehi in Iran, Salehi was transferred to Tohid Hospital from Sanandaj’s Central Prison. The treating physician recommended exercise stress test, but Mahmoud could not pass the exercise test. The doctor believes it is caused by a block in one of the major vessels of his heart. Also, on the same day, they took blood test, electrocardiogram and X-rays. Dr. Mohammad Reza Khaledian, who is a cardiologist, performed angiography. At this time, Mahmoud has been hospitalized at Tohid Hospital ’s cardiovascular department. According to the recommendations by physicians, he cannot move for 24 hours because it may cause bleeding. . His angiographic result will be known by this Saturday. Just a few days ago, a government’s medical officer had made a recommendation that Salehi’s illness does not require his release from prison despite the mounting international concerns for his health.

It’s very important to emphasize that there have been numerous campaigns in Iran and internationally in support of Salehi and in order to save his life. International labour movements as well as human rights organizations, like Amnesty International, have been waging worldwide campaigns in support of Salehi as well as Mansour Osanloo, who has been sentenced to five years imprisonment. Also, the Committee in Defence of Salehi, the Syndicate of Tehran bus workers and the Collaborative Council of Labour Organizations and Activists, all active in Iran , as well as the campaign of Iranian workers’ solidarity organizations in Europe, Australia and Canada and other progressive activists all have been incessant in supporting Salehi, Osanoo and other labour activists.

This support needs to continue until all activists are freed unconditionally and workers are able to form their free and independent organizations. Please refer o the following links for more information on some of the current campaigns in English on workers’ rights in Iran.
//mahmodsalehi.blogfa.com